DRDO Recruitment 2024: Applications Open for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) – Stipend Up to ₹37,000
The Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), part of India’s Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), has announced openings for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) positions in 2024. Aimed at young, talented Indian nationals with a passion for defense-related research, the JRF positions are available under two key disciplines. This opportunity offers a monthly stipend of up to ₹37,000 plus HRA, a competitive offering that promises to attract top engineering graduates and postgraduates.
Post Details and Eligibility
For 2024, DRDO has outlined a total of 12 vacancies for the JRF program. The positions are split across two disciplines:
- JRF-01: Electrical & Electronics Engineering / Electronics & Communication Engineering – 8 vacancies
- JRF-02: Mechanical Engineering / Aeronautical / Aerospace Engineering – 4 vacancies
Educational Qualifications Required:
- For JRF-01 (Electrical & Electronics Engineering / Electronics & Communication Engineering):
- B.Tech/B.E in Electrical & Electronics Engineering or Electronics & Communication Engineering with a First Class from a UGC-recognized university, along with a valid GATE score in EE/EC.
- Or, an M.E/M.Tech in Electrical & Electronics Engineering or Electronics & Communication Engineering with a First Class along with a B.Tech/B.E in a relevant field.
- For JRF-02 (Mechanical Engineering / Aeronautical / Aerospace Engineering):
- B.Tech/B.E in Mechanical, Aeronautical, or Aerospace Engineering with a First Class from a UGC-recognized university and a valid GATE score in AE/ME.
- Or, an M.E/M.Tech in Mechanical, Aeronautical, or Aerospace Engineering with a First Class, accompanied by a B.Tech/B.E in a relevant field.
Age Limit and Relaxations
The maximum age limit for applicants is 28 years as of the interview or advertisement closing date. However, age relaxations are available:
- SC/ST candidates: 5 years
- OBC candidates: 3 years
Fellowship Tenure
Initially, the JRF is offered for a period of two years. There is a possibility of extending this period by another two years, depending on recommendations from the Internal Screening Committee, making it a four-year opportunity for outstanding candidates.
Stipend and Additional Benefits
Selected candidates will receive a monthly stipend of ₹37,000 plus HRA, following DRDO’s rules. This stipend is competitive, given the high standards and nature of the research work expected.
Selection Process
DRDO’s selection process is designed to ensure the recruitment of capable candidates who meet high academic and professional standards:
- Shortlisting: Candidates are shortlisted based on valid GATE scores and their academic performance in qualifying degrees.
- Interview: Those shortlisted will proceed to an interview. The subject of their GATE paper and qualifying degree must align with the discipline they’re applying for.
- NOC for Current Government Employees: If currently employed by the government or a government-owned organization, candidates must produce a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their employer during the interview or apply through the proper channels.
- Preference for Relevant Experience: Practical experience related to the field of study will be given additional preference.
Walk-In-Interview Schedule and Venue
Candidates who meet the qualifications and wish to apply can attend a walk-in interview on the following dates:
- Date for JRF-01 (Electrical & Electronics Engineering / Electronics & Communication Engineering):
- 3rd December 2024 and 4th December 2024
- Date for JRF-02 (Mechanical Engineering / Aeronautical / Aerospace Engineering):
- 5th December 2024 and 6th December 2024
Interview Venue:
- Location: DLOMI, DRDO Township, Kanchanbagh, Hyderabad — 500058
- Reporting Time:
- JRF-01 candidates: 0900 Hrs to 0930 Hrs on 3rd December 2024
- JRF-02 candidates: 0900 Hrs to 0930 Hrs on 5th December 2024
Application Process
Candidates interested in applying for the DRDO Recruitment 2024 should follow these steps:
- Attend the walk-in interview on the scheduled date.
- Arrive at the interview venue on time, preferably by the specified reporting time.
- Carry a duly filled application form and all necessary supporting documents, including academic certificates, a valid GATE scorecard, identification proof, and passport-sized photographs.
Conclusion
The DRDO Junior Research Fellowship for 2024 offers young researchers an invaluable opportunity to work in defense research, gain hands-on experience, and contribute to national security projects. With its competitive stipend, clear career growth potential, and the chance to work alongside skilled professionals in cutting-edge research facilities, this JRF position is ideal for driven individuals aiming for a distinguished career in defense and technology.